Why is there no sound or response when starting the car?
4 Answers
When driving, it's important to regularly check the fuel level in the tank. When the fuel level approaches the warning position, refuel promptly. The car battery is also a consumable item, and it is recommended to replace the battery every 2-3 years. If the car fails to start due to a dead battery, you can use the jump-start method.
I've experienced this situation before, and it was really stressful. If there's no sound or response when starting, it's most likely a battery issue—either low charge, loose terminals, or corrosion. First, pop the hood and check if the battery terminals are tight and clean. Try tightening them with a wrench; if you don't have tools, gently tap the terminals to see if they're loose. Then check if the headlights or dashboard light up—if everything's dead, the battery is probably dead and needs a jump-start or replacement. Additionally, the starter motor might be faulty; if you don't hear a clicking sound when starting, it means the relay isn't engaging. Worn-out ignition switches can also fail to send signals. For daily maintenance, clean the battery terminals and keep a portable charger handy, just in case. If something seems off, stop the car immediately—don't push through in dangerous areas; safety comes first. Regularly check the voltage with a multimeter to keep it above 12 volts, which can help avoid such issues.
I've fixed this issue on many cars, and the common root cause lies in the electrical system. Insufficient battery charge is the primary culprit, but it could also be a faulty starter motor or relay damage. If the motor's internal coils are burnt out or the gears are jammed, there will be complete silence when attempting to start; oxidized relay contacts may also interrupt the current. Prioritize checking the battery terminals and ground wire connections—tighten them if loose. For circuit issues, use a multimeter to test voltage and continuity, such as checking for short circuits or open circuits in the wiring from the ignition switch to the motor. Don’t overlook blown fuses—look for the starter circuit section in the fuse box. My personal habit is to first inspect the simple items: the battery and connections, then rule out more complex problems. If you're not familiar with these, don’t force it—take it to a professional shop for a diagnostic scan to avoid damaging other components. Regular maintenance can prevent such issues, like checking battery health every quarter.
No response or sound when starting? I suspect it's a battery connection issue or motor failure. Check the battery terminals for corrosion, clean them and try again; a faulty motor often results in no sound or movement. The relay should click when starting, but silence indicates no current flow. A short circuit or faulty ignition switch can also cause this. For daily driving, ensure the battery is sufficiently charged and observe the dashboard indicator lights before each start. For prevention, regularly clean the terminals to reduce oxidation. Too many short trips can easily drain the battery, so occasionally take longer drives to recharge it.
